75 toms desexed in SPCA crusade

Before the operations it was all hiss and spit at the Pakuranga Vet Clinic. Picture/ Brett Phibbs

If ever there was a call for a bit of male cat bonding it was yesterday, in the Pakuranga Vet Clinic.

But instead it was wary appraisals and hisses as 75 tom cats were brought in by their owners for the chop.

The clinic had offered free de-sexing of tom cats, which usually costs around $65, and was overwhelmed with the response. One woman even brought in six.

Their pets had little say in the matter, although Blackie let rip one last howl and a little fight before being sedated by veterinarian Ian Scandrett.

When Blackie woke from the 10-minute procedure 'he' was officially an 'it' - along with Bobby, Stimpy, Dammit, Fatty Bum and by day's end, 70 others.

Veterinarian nurse Rebecca Howard said it was a pretty stressful day for all concerned.

"And the cats are all hissing at each other."

The inside of the clinic was a production line of cats in cages, cats on tables, and cats flaked out on the floor like one big cat sleepover.

There was no cutting corners as each cat got the same attention and drugs as its full-fee paying fellow feline.

Manukau Mayor Barry Curtis popped in to check there were no problems, and Auckland SPCA chief executive Bob Kerridge commended the clinic on its project which will be repeated next year.

"These operations today could halt at least the birth of 3000 unwanted kittens this season."

The exercise also aims to reduce the spread of feline Aids as un-neutered toms are more likely to wander and fight, increasing their risk of contracting the disease.

Over 72 veterinarians from Auckland have pledged their support by offering discounts or free de-sexing for cats along with free flea treatment and prizes.

It is part of the SPCA Auckland De-sex and the City campaign to curb the rapidly increasing number of unwanted animals.

The campaign is headed by five AUT bachelor of communication students who are completing their major year in public relations.